Dragons coach Bernard Jackman has labelled his latest recruit Brandon Nansen as one of the region’s “most significant acquisitions for next season”.

Samoan international lock Nansen has signed a two-year contract as he becomes the 14th new addition for the Men of Gwent.

The 24-year-old, who can also cover back row, joins following a stint in the Top 14 with Stade Francais, after beginning his senior career with New Zealand province North Harbour.

Dragons new recruit Brandon Nansen (Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency)

“This is one of our most significant acquisitions for next season,” said Jackman. “We’ve made no secret that we’ve been tracking a strong and aggressive ball carrying second row, so we’re delighted to confirm Brandon’s signing, as he fits the bill.

“I flew to Auckland two years ago to try and convince Brandon to come to France, but he was offered a Super Rugby contract with the Auckland Blues.

“He is a highly mobile lock with loads of potential and while not yet the finished article, at 6ft 6ins and 18 stone I’m looking forward to seeing him give our pack power at the set piece, aggression at the breakdown as well as his mobility and go forward around the park.”

The Kiwi born-and-raised Nansen helped North Harbour lift the Mitre 10 Cup Championship in 2016, which led to him being included in the Blues squad the following year.

He played for New Zealand Schoolboys as a youngster, but has gone on to represent Samoa at Test level, making his international debut against Romania last November.

Nansen in action for North Harbour against Otago last year (Image: Phil Walter/Getty Images)

“I’m really happy to be joining the Dragons,” he said.

“It’s a new challenge to come and play in Wales, a proud rugby nation.

“I’ve come from Auckland to be here on the other side of the world, but I’m enjoying my rugby and getting a taste of what Europe is like.

“The rugby is different from back home, but I’m learning a lot and hopefully I can bring my physical presence to the Dragons.”

He follows the likes of Ross Moriarty, Richard Hibbard, Aaron Jarvis, Rhodri Williams, Jacob Botica and Jordan Williams in joining the Dragons for next season.